WATCH: Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha reacts as Afghanistan touted Asia’s No.2 team before Asia Cup 2025

Salman Ali Agha

Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha became viral on the internet when, at a press conference before the tri-nation series, which also included the United Arab Emirates, a reporter called Afghanistan the second-best Asian team. The all-rounder couldn't help but smirk at the reporter's remark in a video that went viral on social media.

Afghanistan has undoubtedly made rapid progress in cricket, as seen by their strong performances in the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2023 50-over World Cup.  Afghanistan won significant matches against Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and England in the 2023 World Cup, despite not making it to the knockout stage. They defeated Australia and New Zealand to advance to the semi-finals of the 2024 T20 World Cup.

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Rashid Khan, the captain of Afghanistan, was asked by the reporter: "Your team performed exceptionally well in the T20 World Cup. You have been recognized as Asia's second-best team. What are your goals for the tri-series and the Asia Cup?"

Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha made a face and smirked when a reporter called the Afghanistan team the second-best team in Asia#TOKSports #SalmanAliAgha #RashidKhan #TriSeries pic.twitter.com/ndPli9P6kW

— TOK Sports (@TOKSports021) August 28, 2025

The camera focused on Salman Ali Agha, who was sitting close to Rashid Khan, while the reporter made this comment. Agha initially appeared to have a moment of astonishment or bewilderment, which quickly gave way to a significant smirk. Videos and photos of this reaction quickly went viral on social media, with many admirers sharing and remarking on the subtle yet recognizable look.

Afghanistan and Pakistan will play each other in Sharjah to begin the tri-nation series, which also includes the UAE. Having defeated their opponents four times out of seven, Pakistan holds a little edge in T20Is.

The Afghans will try to capitalize on Pakistan's current struggles after defeating the Men in Green in a historic series in March 2023.